Isobutylparaben

Isobutylparaben is a type of paraben, a class of chemicals widely used as preservatives in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Parabens are effective preservatives in many types of formulas. These compounds, and their salts, are used primarily for their bactericidal and fungicidal properties. They can be found in shampoos, commercial moisturizers, shaving gels, personal lubricants, topical/parenteral pharmaceuticals, spray tanning solution, makeup, and toothpaste. They are also used as food additives.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Isobutylparaben, chemically known as 4-hydroxybenzoic acid isobutyl ester, has the molecular formula C12H14O3. It is a member of the paraben family, which also includes methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. Parabens are esters of para-hydroxybenzoic acid.

Uses

Isobutylparaben is used as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products, such as skin creams, lotions, shampoos, and bath products. It is also used in the pharmaceutical industry as a preservative in certain drugs and vaccines.

Safety and Health Effects

The safety of isobutylparaben, like other parabens, has been a topic of debate in recent years. Some studies have suggested that parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, leading to concerns about potential links to breast cancer and reproductive toxicity. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other regulatory bodies have stated that the current levels of parabens used in products are safe for human use.

Regulation

In the European Union, isobutylparaben has been banned from use in cosmetic products since 2015. The decision was based on the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) opinion that the safety of isobutylparaben could not be assessed due to lack of data.

See Also

• Paraben
• Cosmetics
• Preservative
• Pharmaceutical